The aid system is facing deep and growing disruptions. Climate disasters, global conflicts, funding cuts, and the call for more locally driven responses are all reshaping how humanitarian action will evolve. The need to talk about the future and transformation of the system has never been more important than today.
The event presents the first phase of the Future of Aid 2040: Pathways to Transformation report (“Future of Aid 2040”) which explores what humanitarian action might look like in the years ahead. Built through a global, participatory foresight process, the Future of Aid 2040 anticipates four possible futures, sparking strategic conversations to thrive the crises of tomorrow.
Event format
The event will begin with welcome remarks from Deakin University Professor Simon Tormey, Executive Dean, Arts and Education. Then, guests will enjoy a presentation of the report’s key insights and scenarios: Aid on Many Paths, Pathwork Solidarities, Empires of Aid and Age of Fortress by CHL Research Fellow Dr Katie McIntyre. A panel of development practitioners and leaders will then unpack the report’s results.
Panellists:
- Mudasser Siddiqui, Deputy CEO, Impact, Plan International Australia
- Ming Toh, Assistant Director, Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
- Emeline Siale Ilolahia, Executive Director, PIANGO
- Mark Harwood, Senior Philanthropy and Non-Profit Services Manager, Perpetual
- Associate Professor Mary Ana McGlasson, CHL Director
Facilitator: Federico Marcon, Associate Director of Development, Deakin University.
There will be time for questions and contributions from the audience, followed by networking with light refreshments.
Who should attend?
This event is for anyone working in or with the aid and humanitarian system—local actors, international organisations, public and private donors, researchers, and others—who want to understand the changes ahead and be part of shaping the response. Whether you’re focused on strategy, operations, funding, or community work, you will find in this conversation relevant insight for the future of your work.
Online streaming
This event will be live streamed on Zoom for those who can’t attend in-person. Zoom meeting details will be provided following registration.
